A motor vehicle which has come into the custody of the Village of Southampton
by virtue of having been towed away from a public or private place because
it was improperly or illegally in such location or otherwise comes into possession
of the Village of Southampton in the exercise of its municipal functions shall
be deemed to be an impounded vehicle. Any such impounded vehicle shall be
deemed to be an abandoned vehicle if it is not claimed by its owner within
10 days after it is impounded.
If such abandoned vehicle, at the time of abandonment, has no number
plates affixed and is of a wholesale value, taking into consideration the
condition of the vehicle, of $250 or less, title shall immediately vest in
the Village of Southampton.
Any proceeds from the sale of an abandoned vehicle less any expenses
incurred by the village shall be held by the village without interest, for
the benefit of the owner of such vehicle, for a period of five years. If not
claimed within such five-year period, such proceeds shall be paid into the
general fund of the village.
The last owner of such an abandoned vehicle shall be liable to the village
for the costs of removal and storage of such vehicle.